The start of a New Year often brings with it the need for financial planning for the year ahead. With pressure on profit margins and tight control on costs, everybody is looking to see a positive return on their business investment.
Security systems are vital in order to protect valuable assets, yet typically many small and medium sized businesses are often tempted to cut their security budget or look for the cheapest options. This can often be a very false economy, the following 5 steps should help you make the right decisions:
1. Quality
When it comes to installing security camera’s it is very important to use a system that records high quality images at a frequency that allows you to follow any incident or event. Blurred mages with a poor resolution are useless when it comes to protecting your business against crime.
Modern camera systems and lighting will ensure that you get the best possible results in your business environment.
2. Integration
One way in which an SME can look to rationalise their costs is to integrate their security and safety systems, such as external deterrent systems, CCTV, intruder and fire alarms.
3. Remote access to cameras and data
It is now possible to access your CCTV footage from a number of remote or mobile locations using networked systems.
CCTV Remote Monitoring is available in different forms. You might simply wish to be able to view images yourself, via your Lap-Top, PDA or on your home PC. These can be both live images and / or recorded footage. Alternatively, it may be preferable to present images for viewing at a specialist Remote Video Response Centre (RVRC). The operators will interrogate the images and then carry out the agreed response plan, which involves contacting key-holders, a guarding company, or the police, depending on the installation type.
4. Worry Free – Maintenance
Small businesses often cannot afford to have a dedicated person responsible for the day-to-day operation of their security systems. Selecting an approved supplier with a comprehensive maintenance programme will provide a solution that offers total peace of mind.
Future needs should also be considered and it is important to select a well established properly accredited supplier that has the capability to meet the growing needs of the business.
5. Leasing Equipment
Many organisations find that leasing is an increasingly attractive option when it comes to financing their security systems. When equipment is purchased outright it means that capital is tied up in a depreciating asset and is therefore unavailable for any other business need that may arise.
There are further benefits of leasing; payments may also be deducted from taxable profits, which reduce the net cost of leasing the equipment. Budgeting is also easier with regular quarterly payments. These payments are fixed and are not impacted by any sudden changes to interest rates.
Leasing is also a smart choice when it comes to being able to keep up with technology. The original installation can be adjusted during the lease to meet any changes in business requirements.
Finally it is well worth asking a reputable supplier to conduct a risk assessment and site survey. These are completely free and without obligation and will go a long way to ensure that you have a system that completely meets your needs.